The Chicago Bears are stepping up to support local small businesses, and this initiative could impact your community more than you think. With support from PNC Bank, the return of the Small Business All-Pros program highlights the vital role these businesses play in strengthening neighborhoods.

What is the Small Business All-Pros Program?

The Small Business All-Pros, presented by PNC, is a community initiative aimed at celebrating and supporting local entrepreneurs. Now in its seventh year, this program offers small businesses the chance to gain exposure and grow. Applications opened recently and will remain open until July 29. Four small businesses will be chosen to join the 2026 cohort, benefiting from various marketing opportunities throughout the NFL season.

Winners will enjoy a four-week partnership with the Chicago Bears, which includes a highlighted profile on the team’s website, promotional support across the Bears’ platforms, and recognition during home games. This program is designed not just to help businesses thrive but to enhance their community impact as well.

Why Small Businesses Matter

Small businesses are considered the backbone of local economies. They create jobs, foster relationships, and serve as gathering spots for neighbors. Sarah Smith, the Vice President of Fan Development and Brand Marketing for the Chicago Bears, emphasized the importance of these businesses, stating they contribute significantly to the unique fabric of Chicago.

Support from organizations like PNC Bank is crucial. Scott Swanson, the Regional President for Illinois at PNC, highlighted their commitment to helping entrepreneurs build momentum. By providing access to essential resources, these efforts aim to drive economic growth throughout the region.

Past Winners Showcase Community Spirit

The initiative has already highlighted a variety of successful local businesses in previous seasons. For instance, last year’s winners included Kneads & Wants, a woman-owned bakery known for its community-focused approach, and Grace + Ivory, a bridal designer offering custom wedding attire. Other winners were family-owned businesses like Three Stars Vintage and Stewarts’ Cheesecakes, each recognized for their exceptional service and community contributions.

These examples illustrate the diversity and talent present in the Chicagoland area. Each business also shares a unique story that resonates with the local community. The selection process takes these narratives into account, focusing on business impact and community involvement.

How to Get Involved

Small businesses interested in participating are encouraged to apply. The criteria for selection include the business’s overall story, community engagement, and its impact on the local economy. This is an excellent opportunity for small business owners looking to elevate their visibility and connect with new customers.

For more details on the application process, potential applicants can visit ChicagoBears.com/SmallBusinessAllPros. It’s a chance to not only promote their business but also to give back to the community that supports them.

What this means for you

The Small Business All-Pros initiative underlines the importance of local entrepreneurship in community growth. This program shows that when small businesses thrive, everyone benefits. If you ever need to review a business application or similar document, legal-document-to-plain-english-translator/”>AI legalese decoder can help translate it into plain English in seconds.

Source: https://www.chicagobears.com/news/chicago-bears-open-applications-for-2026-small-business-all-pros-presented-by-pnc